Kupukupu is a short fern that forms dense stands, expanding by wirery rhizones that spread out over the ground surface. Underground stolons develop round tubers that are a unique characteristic of this species. Two other species of Nephrolepis, called sword ferns, are common in Hawai‘i: N. exaltata hawaiiensis and N. multiflora. The former (ni‘ani‘au) is an endemic subspecies of the cultivated "Boston Fern"; the latter, is an introduced species now very common across the lowlands of the Islands.

Utilized in decorative head bands—this fern is shade tolerant and a popular landscape plant.